By Mohamed Kamara
It took the Federal Republic of Nigeria nearly two decades of savings and revenue generated from petroleum taxes and other domestic sources to relocate its capital from Lagos to Abuja. In West Africa, Côte d’Ivoire followed a similar path by transferring its capital from Abidjan to Yamoussoukro, largely financed through thriving cocoa exports, domestic agribusiness, and tax revenues. While corruption posed significant challenges in Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire benefited from a more favorable investment climate and broader economic opportunities.
Responding from London to remarks made by the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs during a recent government press briefing in Lungi, Clifford Smith expressed concern over the announcement that Lungi is expected to become Sierra Leone’s next capital city. According to Smith, the atmosphere of celebration and jubilation among attendees seemed premature, as many of the practical and financial realities associated with such a move have yet to be adequately addressed.
Smith argued that relocating a nation’s capital requires the establishment of extensive infrastructure and support systems that serve as the foundation for sustainable development. He noted that hundreds of new residential and government buildings would need to be constructed, along with reliable water and energy systems. Additional requirements would include enhanced security infrastructure, expanded transportation networks, private-sector investment, improved road systems, housing for security personnel, and the completion of major projects such as the proposed Lungi Bridge.
He further emphasized the need for a restructured mini-port, a designated diplomatic zone, expanded entertainment and recreational facilities, a sports stadium, community centers, markets, and numerous other essential services that would support a functioning capital city.
According to Smith, Sierra Leone’s struggling economy continues to be hampered by widespread corruption. While he acknowledged that a capital relocation could stimulate housing development and create business opportunities, he estimated that the initial preparatory costs alone could exceed US$500 million, excluding future expenditures.
He also pointed out that transportation services could benefit from increased movement between Freetown and Lungi, as many civil and public servants may choose to reside in Freetown while working in Lungi. However, he warned that this could place additional pressure on the national wage bill and operational costs.
Smith added that media organizations, distributors, and vendors would likely be compelled to establish a presence in Lungi, creating further economic and logistical challenges. In his assessment, Sierra Leone is not yet prepared for such an ambitious undertaking and may not be ready even within the next thirty years.
He concluded that significant reforms in governance, management, and public administration must first be implemented. Furthermore, he argued that the economic resources needed to support such a project remain constrained by financial uncertainties and ongoing governance concerns.
